"Text and task authenticity in the EFL classroom" by William Guariento and John Morley
This article discusses the use of authentic texts and authentic tasks in foreign language classrooms. The ideal situation is for all activities to be authentic, and the use of genuine materials in the target language is usually a first step in achieving this end.
Although it may seem that beginning language learners cannot access authentic texts or execute authentic tasks, it is possible to modify texts, although modifications for beginners are often not well executed. It is also possible to modify the expectations for the use of materials so that beginners can use authentic materials, focusing on those portions that are comprehensible, to carry out specific activities. Guariento and Morley posit that the way students perceive tasks is more important than whether the instructor deems them to be authentic. A combination of task simulations and authentic discussions regarding those tasks is one way to incorporate material that is potentially useful to students in the real world and also to execute authentic classroom activities.
I think the authors are laboring over a distinction that cannot be made in a classroom setting. Most students realize that they must use simulations to practice potential situations that they will encounter in the target language and culture. Authentic materials are ideal, and if a glossary or some other means of making the materials comprehensible are used, then this will usually improve interest in the task. Using the target language in the classroom is a means in itself of conducting a simulation. When students and teacher share a native language, the classroom is an artificial situation to practice the target language, but most students prefer use of the target language if it is made comprehensible. I believe teachers should solicit student input in regards to classroom tasks and topics, and simulations should be made as genuine as possible, with the use of authentic materials adapted according to the students’ abilities.
# posted by Janine @ 8:17 PM
